PAINTINGS

Figurative Expressionist painting of two nude women intertwined with flowers and plants.

My goal as an artist has been to figure out how my work and art practice can serve as more than just decorative artwork. By using my art practice for my own awareness, libration, and self-development, I realized that my paintings are tools and powerful reminders of strength, self-love, and authenticity. Hanging proudly, these artworks serve as daily affirmations of women’s worth and beauty. Each time they pass by and catch a glimpse of the painting, they are reminded of their power, their worth, and their journey of self-love and self-discovery.

The paintings also empower the women to practice courage, and express their freedom and self-acceptance by celebrating their bodies, identifying themselves in the painting to themselves and their loved ones. By repeatedly sharing that it is them in the painting, they gradually begin to reprogram the way they feel about themselves, fall in love with their bodies, and see themselves with grace and compassion. They release the fear and limiting beliefs that previously hindered them from fully embracing and being themselves.

In a world that often tries to define beauty by narrow standards, these commissioned paintings celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of each woman. They stand as a testament to the fact that true beauty lies in embracing one's authentic self, without conforming to societal expectations.

“I met artist Chiara Mecozzi at a dinner party. She was infectiously passionate about photographing and painting women in the nude to celebrate their bodies and power. Initially, I thought, "I could never be that confident." But after a breakup later in the summer, I reached out and had a transformative photo session. I got lucky because she was in the middle of packing her bags to leave Lisbon for New York City!

A year later, in the summer of 2023, Chiara returned to Lisbon for a visit. I knew it was my opportunity to go for it. I commissioned a 100cm x 120cm painting based on two of the photos. I felt so energized and excited working with Chiara... she helped me celebrate this step in my relationship to my body. A few weeks later, she unveiled the painting to me in her studio and I loved it from the moment I saw it.

I kept the painting wrapped in brown kraft paper because I had a hunch where I was living wasn't going to be my long-term home. Although I was nervous to hang it on my own–I was going to hire expert help!–I finally hung the painting up myself in my new flat this month. I’m thrilled with the journey it represents. Chiara said this "last step" of saying "this is me" to friends and family would be powerful, and it is! (Thanks for teaching me, C.)”